Wizards owner Ted Leonsis knows just how important it is to bring back center Marcin Gortat and forward Trevor Ariza.

Both starters are in high-demand around the Association and Leonsis hopes to keep both in D.C. In an interview Tuesday with TheSports Junkies on 106.7 The Fan, Leonsis discussed the team's plans for the off-season and what they are up against.

"You end up negotiating and you try to get the best deal that you can,’ but markets kind of decide, and these players will get paid," said Leonsis. "And our goal is to keep our team together. We obviously have Plan Bs, if we can’t keep those players, but right now, we have two free agents that are in demand around the league."

Leonsis also explained to the Junkies his reasoning for trading the second-round pick for cash. "It wasn't just for the money, it was because strategically we wanted a first-round pick and we were willing to write a check, and trade players or trade picks, but we couldn't get things done."

Leonsis is hopeful that if him and the front office can keep the core together, the Wizards newfound success will continue.

"If we can keep the team together and then add to it, I think we can be a perennial playoff team."